The African Union has announced key outcomes from recent peace talks held in Goma, aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The talks, which took place on October 5, 2026, brought together representatives from the African Union's High-Level Panel, led by Sahle-Work Zewde, former President of Ethiopia, along with Uhuru Kenyatta, former President of Kenya, and Mokgweetsi Masisi, former President of Botswana. The panel engaged with representatives from MONUSCO, OCHA, ICRC, EJVM+, and the AFC/M23 coalition.
The African Union's High-Level Panel emphasized that the talks aimed to support peace efforts in eastern DRC, led by the African Union. The discussions focused on understanding different perspectives on the path to peace, security, and humanitarian issues, as well as the necessary steps to build trust among parties. The panel stressed that a lasting peace in eastern DRC requires political dialogue and encouraged parties to continue negotiations in a constructive and transparent manner.
The African Union's High-Level Panel called on parties to adhere to the agreed-upon cessation of hostilities and to work together to monitor and enforce its implementation. The panel also emphasized the need to protect civilians, particularly women and girls, from violence and urged parties to prevent and investigate incidents of gender-based violence and other forms of abuse.
Humanitarian issues were also a key focus of the talks, with the panel stressing the need for safe and unhindered access for humanitarian aid to reach those in need. The panel also called for the protection of critical infrastructure, including schools, and for parties to refrain from actions that could undermine the peace process.
The African Union's High-Level Panel reported that the talks provided a valuable opportunity for parties to engage and share their perspectives. The panel will present the outcomes of the talks to the African Union's Special Envoy and the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The conflict in eastern DRC has resulted in significant humanitarian needs, with thousands of people displaced and affected by the violence. The African Union's peace efforts aim to address the root causes of the conflict and promote a lasting peace in the region.
The African Union's engagement in eastern DRC reflects its commitment to promoting peace and stability on the continent. The organization's peace efforts in the region will continue to focus on supporting a peaceful and inclusive resolution to the conflict.
Key points
- The African Union's High-Level Panel facilitated talks between the AFC/M23 coalition and other stakeholders to address the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.
- The talks focused on promoting a lasting peace in eastern DRC through political dialogue and the protection of civilians.
- The African Union's peace efforts in eastern DRC aim to address the root causes of the conflict and promote a lasting peace in the region.
